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Arlington Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Arlington Travel & Tourism, Free Arlington Travel Guide Online

Arlington Travel Guide: Discount & Cheap Arlington Travel & Tourism, Free Arlington Travel Guide Online

Arlington, Virginia is one of the places most frequently visited by travelers to the Nation's Capital, Washington, DC. Whether for business or pleasure, Arlington offers a host of sights and activities for everyone. It is centrally located just across the Potomac River, minutes from all the attractions of Northern Virginia and of the capital of the United States. Easily accessible by air, train, or car, there are a variety of things to see and do in this year-round destination.

Arlington is conveniently located and is within four miles of many of Washington, D.C.'s most visited sites: The Smithsonian Museums, the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Holocaust Memorial Museum and most of D.C.'s other attractions. Arlington is home to the popular Fashion Centre Mall at Pentagon City and only a short drive from Mount Vernon, Old Town Alexandria, Potomac Mills outlet mall, Manassas battlefield, and many other popular Virginia sites.

M
any of the nation's best known and frequently visited attractions, including the Pentagon; the U.S. Marine Memorial "Iwo Jima", Fort Myer, and the Arlington National Cemetery, home of the landmark Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, are located in Arlington. Arlington has its own Men's Softball team: the U.S. Exporters. Of course, the Washington Capitals, the Washington Redskins, the Washington Mystics, and the Washington Wizards are only a bridge and a short drive away.

Arlington, is home to Reagan National Airport, just minutes away from the District of Columbia. All major roadways and the five major bridges into Washington, D.C. from Virginia come through Arlington. Eleven of the thirty-three stations for Washington's Metro Subway system are located there. Incidentally, if you happen to be riding the Metro, be sure take a ride on one of the two longest escalators in the world at the Rosslyn Metro Station. It is 194 feet, 8 inches from top to bottom. The other, located at the Metro station in Bethesda, Maryland, is 213 feet, 10 inches in length.

Arlington County is an urban county of approximately 26 square miles. A little known fact about Arlington is that it is the smallest county in the United States that is self-governing. Arlington was originally part of the ten-mile square surveyed in 1791 for the District of Columbia. In response to requests from residents, the Congress returned the portion of the District located on the west bank of the Potomac River to the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Due to it's proximity to the nation's capital, the principal industries in Arlington are government and tourism. Many nationally recognized businesses, from a variety of sectors, call Arlington home. As a result, Arlington continues to be both a center of commerce and a leisure destination.

A notable local attraction is
Fort C.F. Smith Park . This beautiful 19 acre site includes a scenic view of Washington, DC, a lush tree canopy, a wildlife preserve with observations points, an ornamental peace garden, the lovely Hendry House, and the preserved earthworks of a Civil War fort built in 1863. Within the park, there is even a specially constructed creek designed to attract and host migrating birds.

Some of the best known celebrities who were raised in Arlington include Sandra Bullock, Katie Couric, Roberta Flack, Shirley MacLaine, Warren Beatty, and 1996 Summer Olympic swimming Gold-Medalist, Tim Dolan. Due to it's spectacular and varied scenery, Arlington also claims the honor of having numerous motion pictures and television shows filmed in and around the city. The television series, "Scarecrow and Mrs. King" was set largely in Arlington, as was "Unsolved Mysteries."

Archaeological findings show evidence of Native Americans having lived in the Arlington area for over 9,000 years. The same mountains, valleys, rivers, streams, and woodlands still attract settlers to this area of phenomenal natural beauty.

Whether visiting National sites, taking walking tours, watching the various professional sport teams, enjoying the spring blossom season or seeing the leaves turn in the fall, Arlington has something for everyone in any season of the year.

Arlington Attractions: Arlington Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Arlington Travel & Tourism, Free Arlington Travel Guide Online

Arlington National Cemetery

703-607-8052

Admission Free

Open daily 8am-7pm, April-September. Open daily 9am-5pm, October-March.

A national shrine to the thousands of men and women who have died defending the United States and freedom around the world. Popular memorials include the Tomb of the Unknowns, the Challenger Space Shuttle Memorial, and the grave sites of John F. and Robert Kennedy.

Arlington House: The Robert E. Lee Memorial

703-557-0613

Admission Free

Open daily 9:30am-6pm, April-September. Open daily 9:30am-4:30 pm, October-March

.Former home of the Confederate General and Civil War hero. Here, in 1861, General Lee wrote the letter resigning his commission from the U.S. Army to fight for his native Virginia.

Fort Myer

703-696-3944

Admission Free

Hours of operation vary, call for details

Home of the oldest military division in the United States, the 3rd U.S. Infantry Division. The division is the ceremonial unit for Arlington Cemetery and the U.S. Army. Location of the first commercial air flight. Military band concerts are played regularly at Brucker Hall. The caissons, stables and the Old Guard Museum are open to the public weekdays.

The Netherlands Carillon

Admission Free

703-285-2598

This 49-bell tower is a gift from the Dutch people in gratitude for American aid given during World War II. Concerts throughout the summer. Located on Marshall Drive, next to the Iwo Jima Memorial, between Route 50 and Arlington National Cemetery.

The Newseum and Freedom Park

703-284-3700

Admission Free

Call for hours of operation

The only interactive museum of news. The Newseum takes visitors behind the scenes to see and experience how and why news is made. Visitors can be reporters or television newscasters; relive the great news stories of all time through multimedia exhibits, artifacts and news memorabilia; see today's news as it happens on a block-long video news wall.

The Pentagon

Admission Free

Monday-Friday, 9:30am-3:30pm. Closed federal holidays

ID required for admission

Headquarters for the U.S. Department of Defense, this is the world's largest office building with 6.5 million square feet covering 583 acres. Tours every 30 minutes,

United States Marine Memorial ("Iwo Jima Memorial")

Admission Free

Open 24 hours daily

The largest cast bronze statue in the world is dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives since 1775.

The Women in Military Service for America Memorial

703-533-1155

Admission Free

Call for hours of operation

Located at the entrance to Arlington National Cemetery, honors all the women who have served courageously, selflessly and with dedication in times of conflict and in times of peace.

DEA (Drug Enforcement Agency) Museum and Visitor Center

202-337-3463

Admission Free

Tuesday-Friday 10am-4pm

The Museum highlights how this government agency is fighting the war on drugs in the air, on the land, and on the seas

Fort C.F. Smith Park

2411 24th Street

North Arlington, VA 22207

This beautiful 19-acre site includes a scenic view of Washington, DC, a lush tree canopy, an open meadow and other outstanding features including:
The restored Hendry House mansion, Civil War earthworks ruins, a wildlife preserve with observation areas, nature trails, and an ornamental peace garden. There is also a creek designed to attract and host migrating birds of many species.

Old Town Alexandria

King Street and surrounding streets

Arlington's neighbor, Alexandria, has the good fortune of being the curator of one of the treasures of America, known as Old Town, Alexandria. Old Town consists of the geographic area which was originally all of Alexandria in the colonial days. This downtown area is now known as Old Town and is the most popular tourist destination in this region of Northern Virginia.

Brick sidewalks and cobblestone streets add antique charm to Old Town, which is a thriving district of restored 17th and 18th century residences and businesses. The 300 retail establishments are mostly owner operated specialty shops; many keep extended evening hours. Stores in Old Town intermingle with brew houses and pubs that offer lively music, food, and drink well into the night. Many types of fine dining are also available.

The east boundary of Old Town is the bustling two mile Potomac waterfront highlighted by the Torpedo Factory Art Gallery. Used as a torpedo factory during World War I and World War II, it is now home to five juried galleries featuring the works of almost 200 artists.

Weather permitting, there are several boat rides from the Potomac waterfront area,

Historic sites in Old Town include Gadsby's Tavern, Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary, The Lyceum, Carlyle House, and Friendship Fire Company.

The Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary was started in 1792 and operated as a family business until 1933. The original inventory of herbs, potions, and medical glassware has been preserved just as it was when George and Martha Washington patronized the shop.

The Carlyle House, a Georgian manor house which was home of Scottish merchant John Carlyle who founded the town, is open for tours.

The Lyceum, Alexandria's history museum, houses 3 centuries of history, including prints, ceramics, silver and furniture.

The Friendship Fire Company was organized in 1774. The following year it was given its first fire truck by one of its prominent members, George Washington. Today it displays and maintains hand drawn fire engines and other historic fire fighting apparatus from the 18th and 19th centuries.

Arlington Events: Arlington Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Arlington Travel & Tourism, Free Arlington Travel Guide Online

Events in the Arlington Area

Please note that changes on venue and date of events may occur so please call the indicated telephone number for complete and updated information.

January

Arlington County Farmers' and Flea Market
(Year-round, Saturdays)
14th St. & N. Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Fresh produce, flower market, antiques and collectibles.
(703) 528-6748 and (703) 228-6400

Chinese New Year Celebration
(January 2005)
Chinatown, Washington, DC
Annual parade of marching bands, lion and dragon dancers, clowns and other entertainers. FREE.
(202) 789-7000

Georgetown Flea Market at Courthouse
(Year-round, Sundays)
14th and Veitch Streets Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Antiques and collectibles market.
(703) 528-6748

John F. Kennedy Center For The Performing Arts
(Year-round)
On the bank of the Potomac River from the Rosslyn section of Arlington.
This living presidential memorial is host to the finest dance, theater, and music performers in the world, and is the home of the National Symphony Orchestra, the American Film Institute, and the Washington Opera.
(800) 444-1324 or (202) 467-4600

Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Observance
(January 17)
Lincoln Memorial
Wreath laying ceremony accompanied by a recorded presentation of King's "I Have a Dream" speech, local choirs, speakers and military color guard. FREE.
(202) 727-6306

Orchid Show
(Mid-January)
U.S. Botanic Garden, Washington, DC
(202) 226-4082

Robert E. Lee's Birthday Observance
(Sunday closest to Jan. 19)
Old Town Alexandria, VA
Celebrations for Gen. Robert E. Lee and his father, Gen. "Light Horse Harry" Lee held at Lee's Boyhood Home and at the Lee Fendall House. ADMISSION.
(703) 548-1789

U.S. Army Band Concerts
Variety of Venues. FREE.
(703) 696-3399

Wolf Trapp Performances
(Year-round)
1645 Trap Road, Vienna, Virginia
This is a national park for the performing arts. It presents a variety of performances, including plays and concerts.
(703) 255-1900

February

Abraham Lincoln's Birthday Observance
(Mid-February)
Lincoln Memorial
Concerts by military bands, wreath laying and a dramatic reading of the Gettysburg Address. FREE.
(703) 619-7222

Arlington County Farmers' and Flea Market
(Year-round, Saturdays)
14th St. & N. Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Fresh produce, flower market, antiques and collectibles.
(703) 528-6748 and (703) 228-6400

Frederick Douglass' Birthday Observance
(Mid-February)
Frederick Douglass Memorial Site, 1411 W St, SE, Washington, DC
Wreath laying ceremony in conjunction with Black History Month. FREE.
(202) 426-5961

George Washington's Birthday Observance
(Mid-February)
Mount Vernon, VA
Wreath laying at Washington's Tomb and performances by Army Fife and Drum Corps. FREE.
(703) 780-2000

Georgetown Flea Market at Courthouse
(Year-round, Sundays)
14th and Veitch Streets Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Antiques and collectibles market.
(703) 528-6748

Marine Dress Parade
(Year-round, Tuesday and Friday Evenings)
Marine Yards, Washington, DC. FREE.
Full ceremony featuring the United States Marine Band.
(202) 433-6060

U.S. Army Band Concerts
Variety of Venues. FREE.
(703) 696-3399)

Washington's Birthday Ceremony
(Mid-February)
Washington Monument
Observance with speeches and music. FREE.
(202) 619-7222

March

Annual Needlework Exhibition
(March)
Woodlawn, 9000 Richmond Hwy, Alexandria, VA
America's oldest and largest needlework show with more than 1,000 entries on display, daily needlework demonstrations and awards. ADMISSION.
(703) 780-4000

National Cherry Blossom Festival
(Late March-Early April)
Tidal Basin, 1500 Maine Ave SW
Cherry trees blooming at the Tidal Basin. Festival features music, events and the annual National Cherry Blossom Parade on the final Saturday. FREE.
(202) 661-7584

St. Patrick's Day Parade
(Mid-March)
Alexandria, VA
Parade highlights floats, dancers, and entertainment.
(703) 237-2199

U.S. Army Band Concerts
Variety of Venues. FREE each month
(703) 696-3399

Washington Boat Show
(Mid-March)
Washington Convention Center, Washington, DC
Showcasing sailboats and motorboats. ADMISSION.
(804) 425-6556

Washington Flower And Garden Show
(Mid-March)
Convention Center, Washington, DC
Featuring blooming flowers and gardening tips. ADMISSION.
(703) 569-7141

April

Arlington County Farmers' and Flea Market
(Year-round, Saturdays)
14th St. & N. Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Fresh produce, flower market, antiques and collectibles.
(703) 528-6748 and (703) 228-6400

Earth Day
(Mid-April)
Variety of venues.
Annual event raising environmental awareness. FREE.

Easter Sunrise Service
(Easter Sunday)
Arlington National Cemetery, Memorial Amphitheatre
(703) 607-8000

Filmfest DC
(Mid-April to Late-May)
Venues throughout Washington, DC
Film festival celebrates the best in world cinema.
(202) 628-FILM

Georgetown Flea Market at Courthouse
(Year-round, Sundays)
14th and Veitch Streets Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Antiques and collectibles market.
(703) 528-6748

Historic Garden Week
(Mid-April)
Venues throughout Virginia.
More than 250 of Virginia's homes, gardens and historic landmarks are open for tours. Local tours include Alexandria, Middleburg and Fairfax County.
(804) 644-7776

Smithsonian Craft Show
(Mid-April)
National Building Museum, 401 F Street, NW, Washington, DC
Exhibition and sale of contemporary American crafts from more than 100 artists. ADMISSION.
(202) 357-4000

Thomas Jefferson's Birthday Observation
(Mid-April)
Jefferson Memorial, Washington, DC
A commemoration with military drills and a wreath-laying ceremony. FREE.
(202) 426-6841

White House Easter Egg Roll
(Around Easter)
White House
Annual event for children, ages 3 to 6, accompanied by an adult, on the South Lawn. Eggs and entertainment are provided. FREE.
(202) 456-2200 \

White House Garden Tour
(Mid-April)
White House
Tour the garden and public rooms of the White House. FREE.
(202) 456-2200

May

Arlington County Farmers' and Flea Market
(Year-round, Saturdays)
14th St. & N. Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Fresh produce, flower market, antiques and collectibles.
(703) 528-6748 and (703) 228-6400

Arlington Arts Al Fresco
(May-September)
Throughout Arlington, VA
Free performances at locations around Arlington feature all types of music, dance and theater for all ages.
(703) 228-1850

Art Market
(May-October)
Welburn Square, Ballston, Virginia
Art festival with various entertainment.
(703) 228-0560

Asian Pacific American Heritage Festival
(Early-May)
Venues throughout Washington, DC
(202) 727-3120

Georgetown Garden Tour
(Early-May)
Georgetown, Washington, DC
Tour beautiful public and private historic gardens. ADMISSION.
(202) 965-1950

Georgetown Flea Market at Courthouse
(Year-round, Sundays)
14th and Veitch Streets Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Antiques and collectibles market.
(703) 528-6748

Goodwill Embassy Tour
(Early-May)
Washington, DC Tour of DC's embassies. ADMISSION.

International Flower Mart
(Early-May)
National Cathedral, Washington, DC (202) 537-6200
Annual flower market with flower booths and entertainment. FREE.
(202) 537-6200

Memorial Day at the Women's Memorial
(End of May)
Women's Memorial Ceremonial Entrance, Arlington National Cemetery
Formal ceremony honoring all the men and women who defended this country.
(800) 222-2294

Memorial Day Ceremony
(Memorial Day weekend)
Vietnam Veterans Memorial and US Navy Memorial
Events include speeches, military bands and keynote addresses.
202.426.6841

Memorial Day Ceremony
(Memorial Day weekend)
Arlington National Cemetery
Ceremony at the John F. Kennedy grave site and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, including a sevice at the Memorial Amphitheatre.
(703) 607-8000

Memorial Day Concert
(Memorial Day weekend)
West Lawn of the Capitol Building
Concert includes the National Symphony Orchestra, actors and various bands.
202 225 6827

Netherlands Carillon Concerts
(May-June)
Carillon, Rt. 50 and George Washington Memorial parkway, Arlington, Va.
Guest artists play the 50-bell carillon which was given to the U.S. in appreciation for the liberation of Holland on May 5, 1945, during World War II. FREE.
(703) 289-2500/2552

June

Arlington Arts Al Fresco
(May-September)
Throughout Arlington, VA
Free performances at locations around Arlington feature all types of music, dance and theater for all ages.
(703) 228-1850

Art Market
(May-October)
Welburn Square, Ballston, Virginia
Art festival with various entertainment.
(703) 228-0560

Capital Pride
(Mid-June)
Gay-pride celebration including an 8-day festival around the city with a parade.
FREE.
(202) 797-3510

Columbia Pike Farmers Market
(April-November, Sundays)
Pike Park (Columbia Pike at S. Walter Reed Drive), Arlington, VA
Fresh produce and flower market.
(703) 892-2776

The Commandant's Own
(May-August)
U.S. Marine Corps Barrack and Iwo Jima Memorial, Arlington
Performances by the United States military and the Drum and Bugle Corps.
(202) 433-2927

Dance Africa DC
(First weekend in June)
Celebrating the dances and music of the African Diaspora throughout DC.
(202) 269-1600

Dupont-Kalorama Museum Walk
(Early-June)
Washington, DC
Visit this neighborhood's six museums and enjoy demonstrations, interactive tours, hands-on workshops and concerts.
(202) 667-0441

Georgetown Flea Market at Courthouse
(Year-round, Sundays)
14th and Veitch Streets Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Antiques and collectibles market.
(703) 528-6748

Marine Corps Sunset Parade and Concerts
(June-August, Tuesday and Thursday Evenings)
Iwo Jima Memorial, Arlington, VA
The US Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and the Silent Drill Team are featured. FREE. (Free shuttle bus services available from the Arlington Cemetery visitors' center parking lot starting at 6 p.m.)
(202) 433-6060, (202) 433-4011

Red Cross Waterfront Festival
(Early-June)
Old Town Alexandria, VA
Ships, nautical events, music, arts and crafts, games, refreshments and more.
(703) 838-5005

Shakespeare Theatre Free-For-All
(June)
Carter Barron Amphitheatre, Washington, DC
FREE performances of the plays of Shakespeare featuring the performers and artists of the nation's premiere producer of classic theatre.
(202) 547-1122

Smithsonian Folklife Festival
(Late June-early July)
National Mall, Washington, DC.
Annual festival highlighting various cultures. Includes food, art, and entertainment. FREE.
(202) 275-1150

Twilight Tattoo Pageant
(May-June, Wednesday Evenings)
The Ellipse, 1600 Constitution Ave. Washington, DC
A pageant that combines the patriotic spirit and music of a traditional military parade combined with the rich history of the US Army. FREE.
(202)685-2888

July

Army Blues Jazz Ensemble
(Early July, usually at 6:30pm)
The National Zoo, Washington, DC
FREE.
(703) 696-3399

Army Blues Jazz Ensemble
(July 4, 2004, 6:00 PM)
Washington Monument Grounds, Washington, DC.
FREE.
(703) 696-3399

Army Blues Jazz Ensemble
(Late July, usually at 6:00pm)
Smithsonian Jazz Caf�, Natural History Museum
FREE.

Independence Day Celebration and Parade
(July 4)
10455 Armstrong Street, Fairfax, VA
Parade through historic downtown area beginning at 10 a.m. Also, musical entertainment and fireworks display. FREE.
(703) 385-7949

Independence Day Parade
(July 4, 11:45 am)
Parade featuring floats and entertainment, going down Constitution Ave. at 7th St.

July 4th along the George Washington Memorial Parkway
Celebrate July 4th along the shoreline of the Potomac River in Virginia, including fireworks.
(703) 289-2500/2552

Screen on the Green
(July-August)
The Mall, between 4th and 7th Sts., Washington, DC
Annual event featuring a very large movie screen playing classic films.
FREE.
(877) 262-5866

Smithsonian Folklife Festival
(Late June-Early July)
National Mall, Washington, DC.
Annual festival highlighting various cultures. Includes food, art, and entertainment. FREE.
(202) 275-1150

U.S. Army Orchestra & the Washington Cathedral Choral Society
Late July
(703) 696-3399. FREE.

Virginia Scottish Games

(LateJuly)
Alexandria, VA
Celebrates Alexandria's Scottish Heritage with dancing bagpipes and food. Admission.
703-912-1943

August

Army Blues Jazz Ensemble
Early August
The West Steps of the U.S. Capitol
(703) 696-3399

ATP Tour: Legg Mason Tennis Classic
Mid-August, call for exact dates
The William HG Fitzgerald Tennis Center.
Featuring tennis champions.
(202) 721-9500

Georgia Avenue Day
(Late-August)
Washington, DC
Parade, rides and ethnic cuisines highlight this neighborhood festival. FREE.
(202) 723-5166

Kennedy Center Prelude Festival
(Late-August-Late-October)
On the bank of the Potomac River from the Rosslyn section of Arlington.
This living presidential memorial is host to the finest dance, theater, and music performers in the world, and is the home of the National Symphony Orchestra, the American Film Institute, and the Washington Opera.
(800) 444-1324 or (202) 467-4600

National Frisbee Festival
(Late-August)
Washington, DC
World Frisbee champions and disc-catching dogs take part in this festival on the grounds of the Washington Monument. FREE.

September

Adams Morgan Day
(Early-September)
Washington, DC
Two-day event celebrating the ethnic diversity of this Northwest neighborhood. FREE.
(202) 724-4091

Black Family Reunion
(Early-September)
National Mall, Washington, DC
Two-day cultural event celebrating the African American family with performances, food and themed pavilions. FREE.
(202) 383-9130

Columbia Pike Farmers Market
(April-November, Sundays)
Pike Park (Columbia Pike at S. Walter Reed Drive), Arlington, VA
Fresh produce and flower market.
(703) 892-2776

Coming Of Age: Elderfest!
(Early-September)
Freedom Plaza, Washington, DC
A celebration of older Americans with food, crafts and entertainment. FREE.
(202) 581-8100

Constitution Day Commemoration
(Mid-September)
National Archives, Washington, DC
The original US Constitution is displayed with a naturalization ceremony and concert. FREE.
(866) 272-6272

DC Blues Festival
(Early-September)
Annual festival with a variety of blues music.
Washington, DC. FREE
(202) 828-3028

Fiesta Musical
(Late-September)
Washington's National Zoo
Annual Latin Fiesta celebrating Hispanic culture. FREE.
(202) 673-4800

International Children's Day
(Early to Mid-September)
Wolf Trap Farm Park, Vienna, VA
Entertainers from around the world perform for the entire family. ADMISSION.
(703) 255-1900

Kalorama House And Embassy Tour
(Mid-September)
Washington, DC Tour some of the magnificent homes and embassies in Northwest DC's historic neighborhood. ADMISSION.
202-387-4062

Labor Day Concert With The National Symphony
(Labor Day)
West Lawn of the Capital Building
Concert includes the National Symphony Orchestra and various bands.
FREE.
(202) 619-7222

Prince George's County Fair
(early September)
Featuring rides, entertainment, and food.
Upper Marlboro, MD
(301) 952-0270

Rosslyn Jazz Festival and Army Blues Jazz Ensemble
(Early September)
Gateway Park, Rosslyn VA
Annual jazz festival featuring various artists.
FREE.
(703) 696-3399 and (703) 522-6628.

October

Taste Of D.C.
(Mid-October)
Pennsylvania Ave. between 7th & 14th Sts., Washington, DC
Taste food a wide array of restaurants. Music and are are also featured. ADMISSION.
(202) 789-7002

Theodore Roosevelt Birthday Celebration
(Late-October)
Theodore Roosevelt Island, George Washington Parkway
Celebrate the 26th president's birthday, featuring tours and exhibits. FREE.
(703) 289-2500, (703) 289-2552

White House Fall Garden Tours
(Late-October)
Whitehouse, Washington, DC
Annual tour includes Jacqueline Kennedy Garden, Rose Garden, Children's Garden and South Lawn of the White House. FREE.
(202) 208-1631

November

Annual Seafaring Celebration
(Early-November)
Navy Museum, Washington, DC
Annual sea festival, with storytelling and musical performances.
(202) 433-4882

December

Candlelight Tours
(Late-December)
White House, Washington, DC
Tour the candlelit and decorated White House. FREE.
(202) 619-7222

Christmas Candlelight Tours
(Mid-December)
Old Town Alexandria
Tour Alexandria decorated museums and historic homes with music and refreshments. ADMISSION.
(703) 838-4242

Christmas Poinsettia Show
(Mid-December)
US Botanic Gardens
FREE.
(202) 226-7674

First Night Celebrations
(New Year's Eve)
Several areas celebrate the end of the old year and the beginning of the new with alcohol-free, family-oriented festivals featuring music and dance. ADMISSION.
For information about Alexandria, call (703) 836-1526; Annapolis (410) 268-8553; Leesburg (703) 777-6306.

Georgetown Flea Market at Courthouse
(Year-round, Sundays)
14th and Veitch Streets Courthouse, Arlington, VA
Antiques and collectibles market.
(703) 528-6748

Kennedy Center Holiday Festival
(Early-December - January 1)
On the bank of the Potomac River from the Rosslyn section of Arlington.
FREE performances and holiday concerts.
(202) 467-4600

Scottish Christmas Walk
(Early December)
Alexandria, VA (703) 549-0111
A festival of Scottish music and dance highlighted by a parade.
(703) 549-0111

Arlington Facts: Arlington Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Arlington Travel & Tourism, Free Arlington Travel Guide Online

Population:

Approximately 200,000

Land Area:

25.9 square miles

Time zone:

Eastern Standard Time

When To Go

Summer is the most popular time of year when tourists visit nearby Washington DC. With high temperatures in the mid-80's June, July and August and evenings in the 60's, it's the perfect time to experience the city and its surrounding sites. Spring is the time for a visual extravaganza with cherry blossoms in bloom and all that nature has in store for the season. Temperatures average in the mid-50s in April and in the mid-60's in May. Fall brings a whole new look to the city. With the average temperatures dropping to the 60's in September, the 50's in October, and the 40's in November, visitors get to experience a wide array of colors as the leaves turn in preparation for winter. From December through March a visitor may experience the sight of snow falling. The coldest month is January with an average temperature of 34 degrees and highs in the mid-40's and lows averaging 25.

How to Get There

By Air

Baltimore/Washington International Airport

. Box 8766BWI Airport, MD 21240
(301) 261-1000
1 (800) I FLY-BWI
Fax: (410) 859-3960
Located 30 miles east of Washington, DC and offering a full range of domestic and international flights.

Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport

44 Canal Center Plaza
Alexandria, VA 22314
(703) 417-8000
Located south of the city along the Potomac River and offering a full range of domestic flights on major, regional and commuter carriers.

Washington Dulles International Airport

45020 Aviation Dr.
Sterling, VA 20166
(703) 572-2700
Located 26 miles west of Washington, DC and offering a full range of domestic and international flights.

By Car

Located just west of Washington, DC, Arlington is an easy drive for those accustomed to fast paced interstate highway driving, entering, and exiting. Centrally located between Interstate 395 and Interstate 495, the city is easily accessible by car. In addition, it is circled by the Beltway (Interstate I-495) which feeds into I-95 to the north and south and I-66 east and west. Watch out for rush hour when driving north in the morning and south in the evening. Traffic is at a crawl during those time periods. For a more scenic ride, exit the beltway just outside the District and take US1, which will pass through the center of Arlington and give a view of the countryside along the way.

Getting Around

The Arlington County Department of Public Works' Transit Program provides public transportation services to accommodate the needs of Arlington residents, commuters and visitors for community access and mobility to sustain full, active and affordable lifestyles independent of a requirement to operate or own a personal automobile. The integrated network of transit services and facilities developed, coordinated or operated through this program to meet these needs of the Arlington community include: Metrorail, Metrobus, MetroAccess, Arlington Transit (ART), Specialized Transit for Arlington Residents (STAR), Commuter Services, and Virginia Railway Express (VRE). The fleet of accessible buses consists of small, alternative-fueled (compressed natural gas (CNG) buses operated on eight routes, (various operating times up to 6:00 am to midnight, 7 days a week) as part of a network of bus service coordinated with the 18 Metrobus lines serving the County.

Metrobus

is the Washington DC metropolitan area's regional bus system with 18 major bus lines and approximately 99 individual route variations serving Arlington. Within Arlington, the service is marketed as Arlington Metrobus.

Metrorail

serves 83 stations throughout the area along 103 miles of track, much of it underground. The Metrorail system comprises

five color-coded lines that intersect at various points, making it possible for passengers to change trains and travel anywhere on the system.

Nearest Cities:

Nearest city with pop. 200,000+:

Washington, DC (6.9 miles, pop. 572,059).

Nearest city with pop. 1,000,000+:

Philadelphia, PA (155.5 miles, pop. 1,517,550).

Nearest cities:

Bailey's Crossroads, VA (2.6 miles),

Seven Corners, VA (2.7 miles),

Lake Barcroft, VA (3.8 miles),

Falls Church, VA (4.7 miles),

Lincolnia, VA (4.8 miles),

Alexandria, VA (5.1 miles),

Brookmont, MD (5.4 miles),

Jefferson, VA (5.4 miles).

Average weather in Arlington, Virginia

Based on data reported by over 4,000 weather stations

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Average temp. (�F)

34.2

37.5

45.8

55.6

65.0

73.6

78.1

76.5

69.6

57.7

47.6

38.5

High temperature (�F)

43.5

47.7

57.1

67.9

76.8

84.8

88.9

87.1

80.3

69.2

58.2

47.9

Low temperature (�F)

24.9

27.2

34.5

43.3

53.2

62.2

67.3

65.9

58.9

46.0

36.9

29.1

Precipitation (in)

3.4

2.9

4.0

3.3

4.2

3.5

4.1

3.8

4.1

3.4

3.3

Normal climate around Arlington, Virginia

Based on data reported by main weather stations

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Days with precipitation.

Wind speed (mph)

10.0

10.3

10.9

10.5

9.3

8.9

8.3

8.1

8.3

8.7

9.4

9.6

Morning humidity (%)

Afternoon humidity (%)

Sunshine (%)

Days clear of clouds

Partly cloudy days

Cloudy days

Snowfall (in)

5.5

5.1

2.3

0.0

0.8

2.9

Arlington Kids Activities: Arlington Travel Guide, Discount & Cheap Arlington Travel & Tourism, Free Arlington Travel Guide Online

Upton Hill Regional Park

703-534-3437

Open dawn to dusk

Admission Free

Located at the intersection of Wilson Boulevard and Patrick Henry Drive.

This 26 acre park features one of the world's longest miniature golf holes. The park also features multiple swimming pools (in season), batting cages with baseballs and softballs, a nature trail, shuffleboard, horseshoe pits, snack bars and picnic area.

Six Flags America

301-249-1500

Call for dates and hours of operation

Admission Charged

Located 2 miles east of US Air Arena in Landover, MD

All-in-one theme and water park with over 100 rides, attractions, shows, shops and games including the Typhoon Sea Coaster with one of the world's tallest backwards descent.

Splashdown Water park

703-361-4451

Open Memorial Day to Labor Day

Admission Charged

Located 3 miles off Route 66 in Manassas, VA

Seasonal Water Park with multiple rides and attractions for all ages

Lantern Light Ghost Tour (Doorways to Old Virginia)

703-548-0100

April-September at 9pm on Friday and Saturday night-weather permitting

Expanded schedule in October, call for details

Creep through the dark night in Old Town Alexandria as a Colonial guide tells you bizarre and ghoulish tales of one of the most haunted cities in the world. The walking tour is one hour long and is not recommended for small children.

Marine Dress Parade

202-433-6060

Year-round, Tuesday and Friday Evenings

Admission Free

Marine Yards, Washington DC

Full ceremony featuring the United States Marine Band

George Washington's Birthday Parade

703-991-4474

Old Town Alexandria, VA

Admission Free

Nation's largest parade celebrating the birthday of our first President

Smithsonian Kite Festival

202-357-3030

Last Sunday in March

Admission Free

Features competitions in design, performance and other categories

The Commandant's Own

202-433-2927

May-August

Admission Free

Performances by the United States military and the Drum and Bugle Corps.

Marine Corps Sunset Parade and Concerts

202-433-6-6-, 202-433-4011
June-August, Tuesday and Thursday Evenings
Iwo Jima Memorial, Arlington, VA

Admission Free
The US Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and the Silent Drill Team are featured. (Free shuttle bus services available from the Arlington Cemetery visitors' center parking lot starting at 6 p.m.)

National Independence Day Celebration
July 4: all day

Admission Free
Includes a variety of entertainment including the National Symphony Orchestra concert on the west lawn of the U.S. Capital and one of America's largest fireworks displays over the reflecting pool on the National Mall.

Arlington County Fair

703-920-4556

Late August

Thomas Jefferson Community Center

3501 South Second St.

Arlington, VA

Admission Charged

Features carnival rides, amusements, food and entertainment.

Haunted History

703-780-4000, extension 27

Woodlawn Plantation, Alexandria, VA

Admission Charged

Tour "one of the most haunted houses in Virginia" by candlelight

Christmas Open House

202-537-6200

Early December

Admission Free with donation of unwrapped toy or gift

Family-oriented entertainment, with music

National Christmas Tree Lighting/Pageant Of Peace

202-619-7222

December

Admission Free

Located at The Ellipse, Washington, DC

Annual holiday celebration, opening with the National Christmas tree being lit by the

President and his wife. Season entertainment and music are featured throughout the month.

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